As part of an effort to prevent leaks and emergency repairs in the Punahou area, the Board of Water Supply will replace three 59-year-old water mains beginning today.

The Punahou Water System Improvement project will install new 6-inch and 8-inch water pipes on Hunnewell, Metcalf, and Ho'onanea Streets to upgrade water system and fire protection. There have been a total of 28 main breaks in the area.

Tom Heinrich, vice chairman of the Manoa Neighborhood Board, said he doesn't know how many residents have complained about the replacement of mains.

"I don't know if they'll be waiting for the replacement, but if there is a break then you gotta endure the difficulties of the repairs. But the question is: when the line is going to break again?"

Excavation work will begin on Hunnewell between Lanihuli Dr. and Sea View Ave., and then move to Metcalf between Farrington St. and Campus Rd., and end on Ho'onanea St. between Dole St. and Metcalf St.

"The sooner the water supply gets going with its work the better, because it just one of a number of infrastructure concerns in the area," Heinrich said.

Work is scheduled Monday to Friday between 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., requiring excavation of the roadway and lane closures. Drivers are advised to use alternate routes or proceed with caution.